Mikie Russo loves an emotionally tense situation — which always seem to arise when someone is planning a wedding. He is quick to defuse family disputes — and there is no fête, large or small, that this master of matrimony cannot handle. That's why his docudrama series, Mikie Saves The Date, is heavy on the drama.
With a do it yourself attitude — and a passion for all things DIY — the Long Island native broke into the industry because of his passion for flowers. At a young age, he spent his days crafting floral arrangements that impressed his family and friends, which led to his first job with a florist where he worked with brides, and ultimately to his own event planning company, Michael Russo Events. In each episode of the series, Russo helped a new couple turn their dream wedding into a reality, no matter the budget
The final episode airs on the Sunday, March 8 and features his own dream wedding — which includes VIP guests Sherri Shepard, Kevin Jonas, and Joey Fatone as his groomsmen. We caught up with the lively guy to find out a few more things about what makes him tick.
Kevin and Danielle Jonas and Sherri Shepherd were guests at Russo's wedding.
What are you most proud of?
That I allowed myself to dream BIG and follow my passions, when others didn’t think it would be possible to achieve.
What is your most cherished possession?
A small teddy bear given to me when I was 3 years old by my parents, his name is Bruce. (He’s blissfully adorable.)
What is your favorite thing to splurge on?
I know this will sound crazy however, swimsuits! I love my Charlie’s by Matthew Zink…
What was the best gift you’ve ever received, and who was it from?
A small piece of art (a three-dimensional heart) given to me by my husband seven years ago when we got engaged. We now have a collection with over 20 hearts to date and the best part is it will only continue to grow.
When traveling, what do you never leave home without?
My skincare products. I’m obsessed with Epicuren, I even make sure I send via fedex every time I travel. This way just in case my luggage goes missing, I’ll have my skincare products.
Where would your perfect weekend be?
My perfect weekend would be in Ravello, Italy. It's a beautiful town situated on the gorgeous Amalfi Coast. I would start by checking into my favorite spot, the magnificent Hotel Caruso. One of the great things about Ravello is that it's a short distance from the village of Positano, where you can then catch a ferry to the island of Capri and spend the day on its world-renowned, picturesque beaches. On top of this, the shopping in the area is truly one of a kind; there are so many boutique shops owned by and staffed with local artists and craftsman.
Of course, I would also eat at as many restaurants as possible — in Italy, how could you not? — and burn off all of that pasta and pizza by dancing the night away at the coolest club in the area, Music on the Rocks. I would finish the weekend off with a day of rest and relaxation by the infinity pool at the Hotel Caruso, and indulging in a luxurious spa treatment or two. Perfetto!
What is your favorite neighborhood district, street or area in the world?
Amalfi Town Square is my favorite area, it has amazing restaurants, gelato cafés, shopping and the streets are filled with excitement. All of the locals are so kind and truly have pride for their town.
Tell us a bit about your favorite restaurant, café or bar.
Chez Black is my favorite restaurant in Positano, they catch fish daily for specials and will custom make anything you wish.
Where is the most unique shopping experience?
Capri is only a short ferry ride away and offers the most luxurious shopping experience! You can find a cute pair of handmade sandals to designer bags and vintage gems.
The final episode Sunday, March 8 on Fyi network. Check out this clip below: